Cheap calls to United States with Localphone

Travel Tips for Thailand Etiquette

Although Thai people are very forgiving to foreigners and will probably not say anything, knowing a little about Thailand etiquette before you go shows both respect and an interest in the local culture.

Use these tips to be a better traveler and to avoid offending someone on accident!

Don’t Throw Objects

Throwing an object to someone rather than handing it to them can be considered rude, particularly if the object is of any value. Take the few steps to hand someone an item, and do so with your right hand; left hand touching the right forearm.

Don’t Wai Servers

Although putting your hands together prayer-like (the wai) is common in Thailand, you should not offer a wai to servers, waiters, homeless people, or others “below” you. Doing so actually causes them to “lose face.”

Don’t Point at People

Pointing is considered especially rude in Thailand. Never point at people; instead, raise your chin in someone’s direction. Control your fingers during conversation when trying to make a point. It is OK to point at animals and inanimate objects.

Giving and Receiving Gifts

It is polite to put a gift that someone gives you aside to open later, rather than tearing into it immediately in front of them. Expect Thais to do the same when you give them gifts. Wrapping and presentation are important for gifts.

Don’t Step on Thresholds

Stepping on a door threshold is considered bad form in Thailand because a spirit resides inside. Remove your shoes before stepping over the wooden threshold in temples and homes.

Don’t Use Your Left Hand

The left hand is used for toilet functions. Don’t use your left hand to hand someone money or items – use both hands or just your right hand instead. Always accept items with both hands to show respect.

Monks Don’t Eat After Noon

Many monks take a vow not to eat anything after 12:00 noon. To show respect and to avoid unnecessary temptation, avoid eating or snacking around them in the afternoon.

Dress Conservatively in Temples

When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees. Although many wats in tourist areas are more laxed, show respect by not wearing swim shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Women Should Not Touch Monks

Women should never touch a monk – even on accident, or hand a monk something. You must first pass something to a man or put it down. These same rules even apply to the monk’s mother!

Respect Buddha Statues

You should not turn your back to Buddha statues in temples or shrines; instead, back away. Always remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall of a temple (wat).

Remove Your Shoes

Unless told not to do so by your host, always remove your shoes before going into a Thai home. Some shops, restaurants, and businesses will expect you to do so as well. Just look for shoes at the front entrance and you’ll know.

Don’t Knock the King! (Click to read more)

The Thai people dearly love their king – the oldest monarch in the world. Insulting the King or even his picture means prison time, even for tourists…

Slow Down a Little

Don’t expect the same service in restaurants that we enjoy in the West. Things move a little slower in Thailand – including the servers. How motivated would you be for no tips and pitiful pay? Be patient!

How to Say Hello (Click to read more)

Say hello in Thailand by offering a “wai” with your hands and saying “sawas dee khrap” (men) or “sawas dee kaa” (women)…

Do Not Point Your Feet

The feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body in Buddhist culture. Never point the bottom of your feet at anyone while sitting. Do not touch people with your feet or raise them higher than a person’s head.

The Head is Sacred!

The head is considered the highest and holiest part of the body. Never touch people on the head – even children – and always avoid lifting your foot higher than someone’s head.